Drainage at Heathermount School

Heathermount School had been struggling with excess surface water and flooding, leaving the playing fields waterlogged and unusable during wet weather. To solve this ongoing issue, we were tasked with installing a new land drainage system to efficiently carry water from one end of the site to the stormwater drain, preventing future flooding and improving the usability of the grounds.

This project came with several on-site challenges:

• Hidden underground services – We discovered previously unrecorded underground water and electrical lines, which required careful detection and avoidance to ensure safety.
• Mature trees – The drainage lines ran across a playing field with mature trees, so we worked meticulously to avoid damaging roots.
• Tight deadline – All works had to be completed before the start of the new school term to avoid disruption to students and staff.

• We used a CAT scanner and genny to detect underground utilities and mark safe digging zones.
• The working area was set up and safety measures put in place.
  

• Using our 6‑ton Hitachi digger, we began excavating the drainage trenches across the playing field.
• Where required, we used our 3‑ton digger for tighter spaces and precision work.
  

• A petrol cut-off saw was used to neatly cut through tarmac sections to allow drainage lines to pass through.
  

• New perforated drainage pipes and chambers were installed to channel water towards the stormwater drain.
• Care was taken to ensure correct gradients for optimal water flow.
  

• Trenches were backfilled with 10mm clean washed shingle to promote water movement.
• A 50/​50 root zone mix was applied on top to support healthy grass regrowth.
  

• All machinery was removed from site and the working area left clean and safe.
• The system was checked to ensure proper flow and functionality.
  

• Hitachi 6‑ton digger
• Hitachi 3‑ton digger
• 3‑ton dumper
• CAT scanner & genny
• Petrol cut-off saw

The new drainage system successfully carries excess water away from the playing field and into the stormwater drain, preventing flooding and waterlogging. The work was completed within the deadline, before term time resumed, ensuring minimal disruption to the school. The playing field is now ready for use year-round, regardless of weather conditions.